During their maiden voyage, EU Naval Force’s Lithuanian Autonomous Vessel Protection Detachment (AVPD) has conducted a live firing exercise on board a World Food Programme (WFP) ship, MV Esbjerg. The exercise took place as MV Esbjerg was en route delivering humanitarian aid to the Somali people.

The Lithuanian forces AVPD provide a valuable counter piracy element that helps to deter pirates and protect vulnerable shipping off the coast of Somalia. The exercise was a good opportunity for the Lithuanian military forces to maintain their firing skills, whilst securing the safety of the WFP ship.

Since the European Union Naval Force began providing protection to over 400 WFP ships, all have transited safely free from pirate attack, with over 1.5m tonnes of much-needed food aid safely delivered to the Somali people.